Welcome in the Special Olymipic Torch on Monday, July 13 from 7:00pm – 8:30pm At Novato City Green, 901 Sherman Avenue, Novato.

This year’s Special Olympics World Games will be the largest sports and humanitarian event anywhere in the world in 2015. The games are being held in Los Angeles from July 25 – August 2, and is expected to draw 80,000 spectators – which is the single largest event in Los Angeles to have happened since the 1984 Olympic Games. Earlier this year the Flame of Hope was lit from the rays of the sun in Greece (home of the Olympics), and it has been making its way to Los Angeles to be a part of the World Games. The City of Novato is thrilled to have been selected as one of the Flame of Hope stops on its way to the World Games. The Flame will be accompanied by 42 international athletes and law enforcement officers, and the City of Novato is hosting a community celebration for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Everyone is invited to join us and be a part of this worldwide historical event, happening right here in Marin County!

Festivities will start promptly at 7:00pm with a live 16-piece band. The athletes are expected to arrive at 7:25pm and will be welcomed by the Mayor of Novato and Novato’s Chief of Police. Audience members will also get to hear from two Special Olympians. After the ceremonial speeches conclude the Novato Gymnastic team will be giving a special performance. The athletes are scheduled to leave by 8:25pm, so they can continue to bring the Flame of Hope closer to its final destination in Southern California.

Whole Foods is providing free healthy snacks and beverages.

Come on down for this fun free community event and be a part of international history right here in Marin County! For more information, check out the City of Novato website.